Do you look older than you are? Besides genetics, there are many factors that contribute to your perceived age.
We would like to share 10 habits you have to ditch to look younger without botox or cosmetic surgery. Remember that it’s never too late to start, so make these lifestyle changes now.
1. Low-fat diets
To prevent wrinkles it is essential to consume omega-3 fatty acids that help keep skin supple and smooth. A low-fat diet deprives us of this component, causing premature aging of the skin.
2. Sipping through a straw
When sipping drinks through a straw you have to purse your lips which can cause lines and wrinkles to form around your mouth. The same applies to smoking. Try drinking directly from the glass, and if you’re a smoker try your best to quit. It can be a long and hard process, but the benefits of quitting smoking are enormous.
3. Sleeping on your side
Sleeping on your side, with your face squashed into the pillow, causes and increases wrinkles on the cheeks and chin. Experts say that sleeping flat on your back is the best position to sleep and stay young, fresh, and rested.
4. Bad posture
Poor posture deflects the backbone of its normal alignment, and as a result the muscles and bones become abnormally tense. These damages result in pain and fatigue and can often cause permanent deformity.
5. Using sun protection only on vacation
Overexposure to UV rays is the main cause of premature skin aging. To protect yourself from the sun’s harsh effects it’s important to wear your sunscreen even when it’s cloudy because clouds block as little as 20% of UV rays.
6. Overusing your heating system
Excessive use of artificial heating makes your indoor air very dry. Your skin and hair become dry too, and you get more wrinkles as a result. Try to keep the heat lower in your house.
7. Saying no to sugar
We all know sugar is bad for us, but so is stress, and sometimes you have to give yourself a treat and surrender to your sweet tooth if this is what makes you happy.
8. Watching too much TV
One study found that for every hour you spend watching TV your life expectancy decreases by 22 minutes. Experts recommend that whether you’re on the couch or sitting at your desk, you get up every half hour to walk.
9. Lack of sleep
Adults need at least 7 hours of sleep each night. Not getting enough sleep not only results in looking tired but also shortens your life. Experts recommend going to bed earlier if you perceive a lack of energy, mental slowness, or weight gain.
10. Stress due to lack of organization
Several studies have shown that chronic stress causes serious damage to the cells, which may speed up the aging process. Do not get bogged down, forget the saying ’leave for tomorrow what you can do today,’ and try to get everything done on time.